Preventing & Treating Gum Disease

High-Quality Dental Service in Ventura County, CA

Gum disease is not something to take lightly because, if not properly treated, can lead to tooth loss due to destruction of the tissue and bone that surrounds the teeth. Since 1991, our staff at the Ventura County Center for Cosmetic Dentistry - Mark Weitzman D.D.S. has been devoted to providing the latest treatment and care to individuals and families throughout our community. We are known for the world-class service we provide, and have even been recognized as the Top Dentist in Ventura County from 2012-2013.

Want to prevent gum disease? Worried that you might already have gum disease?
Call us today at (805) 295-8896 to schedule a free consultation!

The mildest form of gum disease is gingivitis. Signs of gingivitis include red, swollen, and bleeding gums. Oftentimes, gingivitis is caused by insufficient oral hygiene, however; it can be reversed with professional treatment and improvement of oral home care. If gingivitis is not treated, it can progress to gum disease, also known as periodontitis.

Signs That You Might Have Gum Disease

Unfortunately, there are often little to no symptoms present to indicate that you have gum disease-until an advanced stage of the disease develops. However, there are warnings that you can look out for which could be an indicator of the disease.

Some warning signs of gum disease include:

• Gums that easily bleed during or after brushing teeth, flossing, or eating hard food
• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Consistently bad breath or bad taste in the mouth
• Receding gums or gums that pull away from the teeth
• Sores in the mouth
• Deep pockets between teeth and gums
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Changes in the way teeth fit together when biting down
• Changes in the fit of partial dentures

If you are experiencing any symptoms of gum disease, contact us for an appointment today!

What occurs during periodontitis?

Periodontitis occurs when plaque spreads and grows below the gum line. Toxins produced by the bacteria in the plaque causes irritation to the gums. These toxins then cause a chronic inflammatory response which leads to the body turning on itself, thus breaking down and destroying the tissues and bone that supports the teeth.

The gums then begin to separate from the teeth, forming pockets between the teeth and gums that become infected. As periodontitis progresses, the pockets deepen, and more tissue and bone are destroyed. Ultimately, this can lead to loose teeth that require extraction.

What causes gum disease?

The primary cause of gum disease is plaque. However, there are numerous other contributors that can affect the health of your gums and lead to periodontitis. Causes of gum disease include:

• Age: Older people have the highest rates of gum disease
• Clenching or grinding teeth: This puts extra force on the tissue that supports the teeth, potentially speeding up the rate at which these tissues are destroyed
• Diabetes: People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing infections because their ability to use blood sugar is reduced
• Genetics: Research has shown people may be more genetically susceptible to gum disease. Despite sufficient oral care habits, they may be more likely to develop the disease.
• Medication use or substance abuse: Certain drugs lessen the flow of saliva, which is intended to protect the gums and teeth. Other drugs can lead to abnormal growth of gum tissue.
• Poor nutrition & obesity: If the body does not receive the nutrients it needs, the immune system may be compromised, thus making it harder for the body to fight off infection.
• Smoking & tobacco use: Tobacco hinders the gum tissue's ability to repair itself, thus speeding up the development and progression of periodontal disease.
• Systematic diseases: Diseases such as cancer or HIV can interfere with the immune system, thus affecting the condition of the gums.
• Times of heightened gum sensitivity: Pregnancy, puberty, menopause, and menstruation are times when the gums are more sensitive, making it easier for gingivitis to develop.

Schedule a free consultation with our top-rated dentist!

Whether you believe you already have gum disease or would like to take proper precautions to prevent gum disease from forming, our team is confident that we are the best dentistry choice for you.

Give our office a call today to schedule your appointment!